New Report Reveals Top Security Risks for U.S. Retail Chains

Interface Systems, a provider of security, actionable insights, and purpose-built networks for multi-location businesses, has released its 2024 State of Remote Video Monitoring in Retail Chains report. The detailed study analyzed over 2 million monitoring requests across 4,156 retail locations in the United States from September 2023 to August 2024.

Offering valuable insights to strengthen store security and protect employees, the report provides an overview of the critical challenges faced by retailers. It highlights the peak times for security incidents, the importance of interactive monitoring, and the effectiveness of advanced technologies such as video verification and voice-down commands.

“This report underscores the critical role that data-driven security strategies play in safeguarding retail environments. By leveraging interactive monitoring solutions, retail chains can effectively mitigate risks, reduce false alarms, and ensure a safer experience for both employees and customers,” said Brent Duncan, CEO of Interface Systems

Key findings include:

Theft, Disturbances, and Loitering Dominate Security Incidents The report identifies theft, disturbances, and loitering as the most common security threats in retail locations. Loitering incidents, in particular, led to the highest rate of police dispatches at 65.8%.

Critical Times for Store Security The data reveals that peak security risks occur during store closing times, particularly between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. when dispatch rates are the highest. Early morning and late-night hours see minimal incidents, indicating a reduced need for escalation during these times.

Effectiveness of Video Verification and Voice-Down Commands Stores utilizing video verification saw a 97% reduction in false alarms, significantly minimizing unnecessary dispatches and associated penalties. Voice-down interventions proved to be a highly effective deterrent, resolving over 99.86% of incidents without requiring police involvement, reinforcing the value of real-time audio deterrence.

Impact of Interactive Monitoring Solutions The deployment of interactive monitoring solutions has proven to be effective in enhancing security and employee confidence. By providing real-time access to remote security professionals, stores can efficiently manage incidents, especially during high-risk periods like store closings.

Tyson Johns, SVP of Security Monitoring Operations at Interface Systems, emphasized, "Our data reveals actionable patterns that retail chains can leverage to deploy more effective loss prevention strategies. The significant reduction in police dispatches through our interactive monitoring solutions demonstrates the power of technology in maintaining a secure environment." For more information and to access the full report, visit: https://interfacesystems.com/state-of-remote-video-monitoring-retail/

Featured

New Products

  • Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

    Connect ONE®

    Connect ONE’s powerful cloud-hosted management platform provides the means to tailor lockdowns and emergency mass notifications throughout a facility – while simultaneously alerting occupants to hazards or next steps, like evacuation.

  • Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden Door Controls is pleased to announce that, in response to soaring customer demand, it has expanded its range of ValueWave™ no-touch switches to include a narrow (slimline) version with manual override. This override button is designed to provide additional assurance that the request to exit switch will open a door, even if the no-touch sensor fails to operate. This new slimline switch also features a heavy gauge stainless steel faceplate, a red/green illuminated light ring, and is IP65 rated, making it ideal for indoor or outdoor use as part of an automatic door or access control system. ValueWave™ no-touch switches are designed for easy installation and trouble-free service in high traffic applications. In addition to this narrow version, the CM-221 & CM-222 Series switches are available in a range of other models with single and double gang heavy-gauge stainless steel faceplates and include illuminated light rings.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.